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Overview

The planning process starts as soon as patients book the surgery through their physician. Patients receive a preoperative information packet at their physician's office.

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Preoperative Packet Topics

  • What to expect physically, mentally and emotionally – before, during, and after surgery
  • Preparing for surgery, including diet and exercise
  • What to wear to the hospital
  • Planning for discharge, rehabilitation options and home care
  • Insurance coverage
  • Contact information for the program coordinator so patients may call with questions

Prior to admission, the Spine Center's program coordinator phones each patient to address any additional questions or concerns.

Learn more about Spine Center and watch the recent Leading Trends in Spine Surgery webinar

Additional Information

Preadmission for Spinal Fusion Surgery

The doctor's office organizes all necessary preoperative tests. The hospital’s preadmission nurse will call the patient to review what is involved with the procedure and how to prepare.

The preadmission nurse also makes sure that all the required tests have been done and conducts a complete review of the patient’s medical history. Any needs the patient has, such as translation services or transportation, are discussed as well.

More on patient services at Greenwich Hospital

More about admitting

Discharge Planning

Discharge planning begins before surgery, during the initial phone call with the Spine Center's program coordinator. Patients review discharge information with the care team during their hospital stay and the program coordinator organizes and reviews each patient's discharge instructions with the patient and their family.

An individualized plan will be developed, in collaboration with physicians, nurses, case managers and others. A variety of patient needs are addressed, including being fitted for an assistive device such as a cane, transportation, support services, home care, medication management and rehabilitation referrals or placements.

If needed, a case manager works directly with patients to review insurance benefits and to plan appropriate placement at an inpatient rehabilitation facility if required. The program coordinator calls each patient a few days after discharge to check their progress and address any concerns or questions.

Learn more about discharge procedures

To contact the Spine Center's Program Coordinator, call 203-863-3697 or to contact a case manager, call 203-863-3336.

Billing and Payment

Part of the discharge planning process includes helping patients fully understand the billing process in order to plan for payment. Case managers work closely with patients to clarify insurance benefits eligibility.

Please note: Patients may receive separate bills from providers other than the hospital. These may include physicians, such as the radiologist and anesthesiologist, and the laboratory.

Learn more about billing and how to pay your bill online

Yale School of Medicine

Yale New Haven Health is proud to be affiliated with the prestigious Yale University and its highly ranked Yale School of Medicine.